The emergency shelter is staffed around the clock by trained advocates.

Women and families may stay for 28 days.  Each person—woman, child and teen—has an advocate to assist them. Each woman sets goals for herself, and receives assistance in meeting her goals. Some of the goals are simple, such as replacing lost documents—social security cards, birth certificates. Others are complex, such as finding affordable housing.

Most families come with next to nothing, so we provide all the basics: food, clothing, bus tickets, personal care items and toys for children.

Interpreters are provided for all services, and we provide kosher or halal food as needed.

In addition to individual assistance, there are support groups, a chemical dependency group, a parenting group, resources for child care, evening homework help, activities for children and teens, and weekend outings. Outside providers, including a nurse, mental health therapist and healthcare advocate, visit the shelter weekly to meet with residents.  

All services are free and voluntary.

All of the women receive personal advocacy and counseling services. On average, 70% attend general support groups, almost 80% attend chemical dependency groups, and over 40% of those with children attend parenting groups.

The average length of stay is 27 days. Some women decide to return home, others go to friends or relatives, some find a spot in transitional housing, and some move to a place of their own, usually in subsidized housing. Some go to another shelter. Almost 30% go to transitional or permanent housing. Poverty was a major factor in limiting their choices.

In 2009, over 250 women and children stayed in our emergency shelter. Because of the high demand for services, 15 people were turned away for every one sheltered.